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- Tasks: Join a team to develop innovative software for archaeological dating evidence.
- Company: Be part of the University of Sheffield, a leading institution in research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research that enhances archaeological knowledge and impacts cultural heritage.
- Qualifications: Pursuing a PhD in Statistics or related fields with programming skills in R or Python.
- Other info: This role offers a unique research internship opportunity for PhD students.
The predicted salary is between 37100 - 45585 £ per year.
Contract Type: Fixed-term with an initially fixed end date of 3rd December 2025.
Location: University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department: School of Mathematics and Statistics
Salary: Grade 7, £37,099-£45,585 per annum
Closing Date: 12th February 2024
Role Summary:
Applications are invited for a Research Associate in the School of Mathematics and Statistics. You will be working with Prof Caitlin Buck and Professor Jeremy Oakley to develop Bayesian expert elicitation protocols and software, as part of research funded by The Leverhulme Trust project “Quantifying Uncertainty in Expert Archaeological Dating Evidence” (QUEADE). You will develop new protocols and open-source software to allow experts in archaeological finds, such as coins and pottery, to formalise their knowledge about the dates of cultural objects that cannot readily be dated using scientific methods (such as radiocarbon dating). The goal will be to quantify the expert knowledge using formal probability statements, which has not been done before. By doing this, the QUEADE project will improve the consistency and reusability of dating evidence for the most commonly dated finds from archaeological sites and, in the process, add enormously to the quality and quantity of dating evidence available.
Qualifications:
You should have (or be working towards) a PhD in Statistics, Science-based Archaeology, or a related subject, and have confident programming skills, preferably with knowledge of R or Python. A background in at least one of expert elicitation, Bayesian inference, or qualitative data analysis is desirable, but not essential. We are happy to consider applicants who are working on one or more of these topics as part of a PhD and who would like to join QUEADE for 18 months, as a research internship during their studies.
Research Associate employer: The International Society for Bayesian Analysis
Contact Detail:
The International Society for Bayesian Analysis Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Bayesian methods and expert elicitation techniques. Understanding these concepts will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the QUEADE project.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current research in archaeological dating and related statistical methodologies. This will allow you to discuss relevant topics confidently during networking opportunities or interviews, showcasing your knowledge and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with professionals in the field through platforms like LinkedIn or academic conferences. Building relationships with researchers and academics can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider contributing to open-source projects related to R or Python that focus on statistical analysis or archaeological data. This hands-on experience will enhance your programming skills and make your application stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Research Associate position. Pay attention to the qualifications needed, such as programming skills in R or Python, and any relevant experience in Bayesian inference or expert elicitation.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your academic background, particularly your PhD work, and any projects related to statistics or archaeology that showcase your expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the QUEADE project. Discuss how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate for developing Bayesian expert elicitation protocols and software.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your application is clear, concise, and professionally presented, as this reflects your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at The International Society for Bayesian Analysis
✨Understand the Project
Make sure you thoroughly understand the QUEADE project and its goals. Familiarise yourself with Bayesian expert elicitation and how it applies to archaeological dating. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Showcase Your Programming Skills
Be prepared to discuss your programming experience, especially in R or Python. Consider bringing examples of past projects or code snippets that demonstrate your skills, as this role requires confident programming abilities.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to statistics, Bayesian inference, and qualitative data analysis. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, as this will highlight your expertise.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the research team, the methodologies they use, and the future direction of the project. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career aspirations.
